Viva Cruises officially christened its new ship, the Viva Beyond, during a ceremony in Paris, France, on May 8, 2026.
According to a press release, Norwegian travel industry leader Cecilie Kopperud served as the godmother of the vessel, which became the first in the company’s Viva Boutique line.
The company said that the naming ceremony was based on maritime tradition and included a ribbon-cutting ceremony that triggered the breaking of a champagne bottle over the ship’s bow.
Danish journalist Annamette Fuhrmann hosted the event, which was attended by over 160 travel partners and top executives from Viva Cruises, including CEO and Co-Founder Andrea Kruse.
“We are so excited to launch the next step in our company’s growth with the christening of the Viva Beyond,” said Kruse.
“In keeping with its name, this ship is beyond anything we have offered before and, as the first ship in our exciting new Viva Boutique line, marks another important milestone in the success of our young company,” he added.
Kruse also highlighted Cecilie Kopperud’s role as godmother, saying she “epitomizes the passion we share for excellence in river cruising.”
“It’s such an honor to be Viva Beyond’s godmother, and I was thrilled to cut the ribbon and wish the ship smooth seas and good fortune for years to come,” Kopperudsaid.
“The ship is absolutely beautiful and fittingly captures the charm of the French lifestyle. Those who sail on this fantastic ship are going to be in for an amazing experience,” she added.
The Viva Beyond became the ninth ship in Viva Cruises’ fleet and is said to offer an experience that reimagines river cruising.
Viva said that the vessel was designed as a floating boutique hotel, with interiors inspired by what the company called the timeless charm of France.
The 360-foot long Viva Beyond has 56 cabins and can host up to 112 passengers. Half of the vessel’s staterooms are suites measuring up to 323 square feet, the company noted.
Among the highlights of the larger cabins are floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, Nespresso machines and Typology amenities.
The Viva Beyond also offers three restaurants, including Moments, which features a menu created by Michelin-starred Chef David Görne and the Viva Cruises culinary team.
Other highlights of the ship’s design include a wellness center with a modern fitness room and spacious sun decks.
Entertainment options onboard the Viva feature the “Paris Pétille” cabaret show, as well as live jazz in the Panorama Lounge and classical concerts.
As part of its inaugural season, the Viva Beyond offers three itineraries in Northern France. Viva said that the cruises were built around art, gastronomy and culture, immersing guests in the destinations.
“In the footsteps of Impressionism” is said to invite passengers into the landscapes that inspired Monet and Renoir, with visits to Giverny and its gardens offering a draw for travelers interested in French art and culture.
Optional excursions include visits to Monet’s garden, as well as museums and historic sites showcasing Impressionist masterpieces and the creative spirit of the era.
“Culinary delights of Normandy” take guests through the French gastronomic region of Normandy, visiting local producers, historic châteaux and coastal towns.
Viva said that the itinerary combines authentic food experiences with a deeper understanding of the region’s culinary traditions.
“Pure culture along the Seine” is said to provide a slower and more atmospheric journey that blends Parisian landmarks with everyday French life.
